Green energy tariffs provide cheap energy and help the environment

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There is a voluntary Green Energy Certification Scheme, set up by energy regulator OFGEM, which enables suppliers to have their green energy tariffs independently audited and officially declared ‘green’ as long as they achieve set targets. Most of the major suppliers have signed up to this program, and have at least one tariff that has been certified as green. However, some of the smaller energy haven’t paid to subscribe to the certification, so it cannot necessarily be considered to be a comprehensive selection of all environmentally-friendly tariffs.

Some companies have entered the market promoting primarily green tariffs. These include Ecotricity, Good Energy, LoCO2, and Green Energy UK. These smaller providers are specialising in the renewable energy market offering in some cases energy produced from 100% renewable sources.

Are Green Energy tariffs more expensive?

Green energy tariffs are usually more expensive when compared against the cheapest available traditional energy tariffs. This is due to the cost of producing renewable energy, offsetting emissions, or contributing to environmental schemes all adds additional costs for the supplier. However, most consumers who wish to do their part for the environment by choosing a green tariff will be aware of the additional cost involved.

Although the costs do tend to be higher for green tariffs, this is not always the case. It is important for customers who are interested in going green with their energy to compare their current tariff and supplier using a price comparison website. Some may find they could save money and help the environment by switching to a green energy tariff.

Renewable energy explained

By 2015 suppliers will need to be sourcing at least 15% of their energy from renewable sources. There are a number of different ways renewable energy can be sourced, for example solar energy panels or wind turbines can be used to generate electricity. Marine and hydro power has also been used to harness the power of waves and running water respectively. Additionally biomass, the use of organic waste, and waste incineration can be used to generate heat and power without using fossil fuels.

To see if you can save money and help the environment with a green energy tariff, compare your gas and electricity suppliers now. Consumers could save hundreds of pounds by switching their supplier.

Call us on 0800 542 7156 to switch to the best deal.

The above article was created for Telegraph Financial Solutions, a member of The Telegraph Media Group. For more information on Telegraph Financial Solutions click here.

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*Savings calculated against the latest OFGEM Supply Market Indicator for average UK home energy bills. UK average dual fuel bill for next year calculated as £1,185 a year.

1.) Source: energyhelpline.com,
2.) All calculations are for an average usage dual fuel household paying by monthly direct debit.
3.) Average usage as defined by OFGEM is 12,000 kWh pa of gas and 3,100 kWh pa of electricity.
4.) Expected savings include the announced price rises.

To compare energy tariffs across the market and find the cheapest deal in your area, contact Telegraph Energy Switching on 0333 414 2671